Kochi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated action against Malayali chartered accountant George Mathew, who was figured in the Panama papers for his alleged involvement with Mossack Fonesca, the Panama-based law firm in opening an offshore company and stashing away wealth.

Mathew and family, who are settled abroad, arrived in Kerala a few days ago. While attempting to return to Dubai, they were halted by the immigration officials of Nedumbassery airport on account of the lookout notice issued by the enforcement directorate. 

Mathew and his financial transactions have been under the ED radar for nearly one year. Amid which, Mathew and his son were interrogated by ED officials. Following which, he went abroad and did not come back despite the ED issuing summons for interrogation. 

As per available reports, Mathew and family landed in Kerala around 15 days ago to take part in a family ceremony. However, they decided to go back after news surfaced about their presence in the state. 

On Tuesday, ED summoned Abhishek and Mathew for questioning, but the latter failed to show up citing chest pain. Following this, Abishek was grilled for hours from morning till late night. He later told ‘Mathrubhumi News’ that investigation was underway and he only knew that much. 

It is alleged that several shell companies were set up under Mathew and Abishek’s names and black money was sent to Panama via Mathew’s account. 

Meanwhile, it is learnt that Mathew and family are currently in a flat in Kochi. The ED is likely to begin stringent action against them in the coming days.